Northern Kentucky University Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

James

For a very long time I knew I was going to work in the medical field. At the early age of 10. At that point i didn’t know what position I was going to pursue in the medical field. Some want to pursue working as a doctor or surgeon, I wanted to be a Regisetered nurse. Or a technician, well the technician I pursued or over 23 years now. And I love every minute of it.. and I take a lot of pride in my work.

Emily

If I could go back in time and tell myself about college what would I say? Well to start off I would say that it's not as hard as everybody says. It's a lot more freedom then when your living at home; which is nice:) Even though it's not as much homework it's for sure a lot more studying. You need to be prepared to meet a lot more new people. So being open minded to everybody helps you make the friends you need:) In conclusion I would tell myself not to worry I can do it!

Sarah

I would tell myself that its not that hard, that I can do whatever I put my mind to. College is a great chapter in your life, and I will succeed to my fullest and make my dreams come true.

Andrew

Knowing what I know now, I would definitely have approached transitioning to college differently. Quite frankly, I did not take the process as seriously as I needed to. I ended up missing dates for certain things and so I missed out on important opportunities to gain the financial need that I need. I am in a tough situation. My parents make enough to where we are many times over what is considered in need of federal or state aid. My parents are also not in a position to where they could easily take care of the costs associated with tution and other things. Therefore this huge gap exists that must be filled with loans, scholarships, grants, and anything else I can find to help me. The situation I face now is the same one I faced as a High School Senior. In short, I would have told myself to shape up and concentrate on the future.

Abigail

If I were able to go back in time, I would tell myself to not stress out about where I am going to go because I will end up where I'm meant to be. I would also tell myself to go to class everyday, no matter how bad I do not want to that day and to spend at least three hours a day in the library. I believe I am truly meant to be here and this is where i will succeed and be the best I can be.

Megan

I would tell myself to prepare for alot of studying. When I was a senior in high school I had no idea that I would take at least three exams in every one of my classes a semester. Not only did I know about the exams but I also didn't no how vital they were to pass and how much they would affect my grade. I would also tell myself to get ready for the best time of my life. I love college and everything that comes with it. I always have a lot of homework and studying to do and sometimes I just want to give up because I get so stressed out. Then a good grade on an exam comes along and makes all the stress worth it. College is so different from high school because this is what truly makes the rest of your life and thats how I see every exam and class I take. Passing a class, to me is just one step closer to the future I have planned for myself as a pharmacist.

Brittany

I would have taught myself how to study more than what i did in college. I did take a class that taught me how to study efficiently but i wish i would have known that classes would be hard

Lauren

Dear High School Self- I know it seems like your social anxiety will eat you alive right now, and you can't imagine starting something as extreme as college. But I just want you to know that college is right for you. Being able to pick your classes (and even sometimes your professors), you will feel less stressed and more excited about going to school. Just remember that knowing you have anxiety and doing what you can to combat that now really IS going to help. You'll give speeches (in front of a class, I know! Shocking!) and you'll talk to professors and fellow classmates with much more ease. It's hard to imagine now, but the time will come when it won't seem so hard to be a student. College isn't always easy but it's a new experience with a wider variety of people. You'll find your nice soon enough. Try worrying a little less, and having a bit more fun. Best of luck, Your Older (and I Hope Wiser) Self

Suzanne

If I could talk to myself as a highschool senior I would tell myself to take advantage of every opportunity, because you never know what doors it can open. I would tell myself that its ok to fail and that the only real failure is not trying at all. Getting involved in extracurriculars and getting to know people is important and fun, but there you still have to be disciplined and know when you should be focusing on your schoolwork. Pursue your interests, don't give up hobbies or activities just because its not a college related event. Finally, I would tell my younger self not to sweat the small stuff, as you embarck on this new and exciting journey.

Ellen

Don't treat college like high school. Just because you can be more independent doesn't mean you should skip class because you think it's okay. Attending class is a very importent factor for freshman, it counts toward your grade. Eat breakfast, wake up at a resonable time, and get to class early.

Abigail

I would advise myself to do my best in all my classes. Make sure I don't fall behind. Work harder on getting scholorships. Make good carrer choices. Remember to take time for yourself and don't work yourself into the gournd.

Amber

If I could go back to high school, the advice I would give myself is to get involved. It is very hard for me to get involved in college because I am not comfortable and open two trying new things.

Sarah

If I could go back to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as you could find as earlier as possible. Even with NKU's prices being "affordable" I still do not have enough. I was not prepared for the expenses of college and I did not look into scholarships as a senior. That would be the best advice I could give myself as a senior in high school.

Ashley

I would tell myself it's not going to be as scary as I thought. That it will be fun and there will be tons of people there to help you with all your questions. To stay postivie and work hard and never give up and that you will make friends very easily. To keep studying to keep up your grades because you still can get scholarships for them.

Kimberly

Things may not get harder with class, you just have to push yourself. However what you think you know, you don't. Try many things, experience what you can and keep hoping things get better.

Haley

Dear Haley, It is your senior year you have taken the A.P. classes, interned, participated in clubs, volunteered, and worked the rest of the time. You pushed students away because you wanted to move forward, you stressed about that B, you are worried college is going to be high school: phase two, and lastly, what about the money? My advice to you is that let go of all that stress, forget about the what ifs, and just applaud yourself for getting through those last four years. You worked very hard and I promise it will pay off. Do not stress about the grades just try your hardest and do not lose sight of your goals. College is nothing like high school you will meet people as lifelong friends, you will create a network much larger than yourself. Also, as for the money you may need to work two jobs but you had prepared yourself so well that you will be able to use that money for great things like renting your first apartment, taking more classes, studing abroad, and experiencing new adventures in new places with new people. This time is precious. Sincerely, Future Haley

Katelyn

In hindsight, I am confident about the path that I have taken up to this point in my life. If I were to be able to go back in time and talk to myself as a High School senior, I would give myself one piece of advice: "Have trust and faith in yourself." In my opinion, the most frightening thing about college was the unknown. Once I was able to experience everything for myself, I knew exactly what my purpose was, and I knew exactly what to do. When in doubt about anything, I look to God for the answers. I know that if I have trust in God, that everything will work itself out in my favor. I have strived for success ever since I can remember, and during my first year of college I found out that anything is possible. To illustrate this, a goal of mine was to maintain a 4.0 GPA. With my hard work and perseverance, I was able to meet this goal, among others. When times were tough and when I felt like giving up, God was there to show me to keep going. Without him, I would be nothing.

Ashley

The best advice I could have given myself would be to manage my time better. Writing a paper the night before won't cut it and cramming for a test the morning of definately doesn't work. Remember, even though it was only a summer, you're a different person, so even if you have a class with someone you 'know' you may not know them now. Keep an open mind, keep your chin up and smile; there's absolutely no reason why you won't make friends. Just breathe, you can do this; take it day by day.

Mark

The advice I would give to myself as a senior in high school, is I will need to study harder, and take school more seriously. In conjuction to that, I would say, those famous words professors tell us all the time, "you do pay extremely amounts of money for those text books, open them and read!" Another thing I would tell myself, is to be conservative with your money, and save, save save!

Michelle

Stay focused and don't wait until the last minute to turn in assignments.

Laura

To take every opportunity given to you because you never know what will come of it and it never hurt to try. There are so many advatages of getting as involved as you can and joining organizations that have your interest. I have gotten really involved on campus and enjoyed every bit of it and it has provided me with the best experiences of my life.

Valerie

I would tell myself to take it the exact same way. I am very happy with the college I chose and so far my Accounting major choice as well. I feel I adapted well and quickly to the changes of college.

Tiffany

If I could go back I would tell myself to learn how to study because college is hard and in order to do well you need to study. I would also tell myself to look for scholarships, grants, and a job because college is exspensive.

Lindsey

I think the best thing I have learned at college so far is responsibility. I'm only a freshman in my second semester, but I already understand how important responsibility is. I'm not living at home so I don't have anyone telling me what to do or how to balance my time. I've learned that I am responsible for ME and I am my own boss. Its up to me to be successful in college. I've also enjoyed being on my own too. I like the independence that I have now, but I know that you cannot have true independence without responsibility.

Kellie

I have had the opportunity to direct my own education, choosing classes that have interested me. I have made good friends and been introduced to opportunites that will be beneficial to me later in life as well as opportunites I want to pursue. I plan to be an educator so I am happy that I have the chance to attend somewhere that is new and offers new learning expereinces to carry into my career field. I am also grateful to be near a major city with brings great internships and cultural opportunities.

Matthias

I can handle anything that others can’t. I want to make my SKILL a profession that everyone else think is very hard to do. I know I can do the hardest thing in finance and achieve above a 3.0 GPA. I want to make a ton of money when school is all said and done. The things I want in life require a budget that going to school for a long time and doing well, it will all pay off one day when I get my doctorate. I will do anything in my power to not have to drop out of school because I can’t afford it. That’s far from my option. That’s unsuccessful. I am DETERMINED to do this and I doubt anything will stop me. I will find ways to pay for school even if I have to eliminate my fun and work. My college education is MY LIFE and that’s what makes me happy. In ten years from now, I would like to look back at today and laugh about how I struggled and prove how hard work pays off when you give it your all for a long time.

Pamela

I am just going back after a three year break so I am still getting to know my new school. I like it, though. Everyone is really nice.

Kristina

I have gotten a lot out of attending college. Learning more about that I want to major in. Sociology is the best thing for a Social Worker because you learn how groups work, but also physiology is also a main thing because you learn how individuals work. The main thing is that when you attend college your looking for a better life in the future with a career you love. Also, to better better yourself in achieving a major goal to graduate and have a job that you will enjoy doing for the rest of your love.

Jesse

I have received a better understanding of the world and it has enlightened me in all aspects of life. Prior to college, different subjects seemed isolated from one another, almost as if different colors did not transition from one another on the spectrum. These different subjects that I once thought were wildly different began to bleed together in a way that I believed few could see. Unlike many aspects in life, college is there for one to grow intellectually. My mind was thirsty for knowledge after being bored throughout highschool and I was able to quench that thirst. The college experience has taught me responsibility, independence, and most importantly, motivation. I have never been so motivated to learn more than what I have felt during college and I cannot imagine my life without such drive. Most people decided to stop growing and to settle, I have chosen to expand at a substantial rate.

Sarah

There are so many things that I have gotten out of my college experience. Friends, opportunites, and the things I learned are just a few. The ability to use higher level thinking in ways that I never thought possible is probably the most valuable reason to attend college.

Bill

The experiences and direction i have recieved from attending college is unmeasurable. To elaborate, i have never had an outline for life. I have never considered the future in any great detail. due to my recent college experiece i have gone from no ambition or purpose to an unstoppable force in the world of acedemia. I do not know where i would be in this world currently with out my new found focus. i am currently finishing my second year at the community college level, chasing three different majors; business, mathematics, and engineering. i do not only plan to change my stars, but aspire to be a positive role model for my community and country. If i only had a clearer understanding of life and the trials and tribulations necessary to be a successful person in society today. The values i have gained in college will ensure a life of endless possibilities, rather than a clouded stifled journey spinning out of control with no real direction or purpose. Thanks a Millon, Bill Jim Tew

Kelly

I have gotten a lot from my college experience thus far. First and foremost, I have learned a lot in a variety of subjects and discovered my passion for psychology. A good education is what I expected from attending college, what I didn't expect was the friendships I've made, the professors I've met, and the self actualization that comes along with the college process. While some friendships end when the semester is over, I have made some very good friends I hope to keep throughout my life. My professors have inspired me and interested me in a way that makes me want to be a big contributor to society. So far, after just three semesters of college, I have done a lot of maturing and figuring out who I am and what I want in life. In high school I didn't have any goals for myself, and that made me feel insignificant. Now that I know I can be more than just a student or an employee, I push myself to excel in life and set goals for myself.

Joy

I'm a student majoring in International Studies and a Political Science minor. The aim of most college students is to get the most out of their education, and that is exactly what my college provides. Class sizes are small, giving each student a chance to express their opinions as well as get to know their professors on a deeper level. The lessons are interactive, providing a great learning environment. As an incoming freshman, I was quite unsure about what my college experience would be like. However in college, I found friends I know I will keep for a lifetime. As an entrepreneur, I enjoy being involved on campus in ways that use and enhance my leadership abilities. The highlight of my time at NKU has definitely been my experience studying abroad. Thankfully due to a scholarship award offered by the international students office, which paid my trip, I had the opportunity to work with a school in Mexico as part of a service learning project over spring break. My time abroad had an immeasurable impact on my life. Not only that, but adding these experiences to my résumé will allow for many more career opportunities in the future.

Krysta

Even more than the sheer amount of knowledge and the ability to move forward in my education and career plans that attending college has granted me, I've been gifted with much more important life lessons along the way. The value of giving everybody a chance, especially teachers (sometimes the teacher who shows up twenty minutes late is the one who was helping a student and lost track of time). The beauty in diversity, and the richness and vibrancy that it brings to not just a classroom, but to the world. The importance of listening, of analyzing, and of truly hearing what other people have to say. The power of community, and the ability of just one person to make an unforgettable impact on the life of so very many others. When I first told my friends of my intentions to attend a community college before moving on to a four-year university, the scoffed and said that my education would be sub-par. I can honestly say, with all of my heart, that they were wrong. In the past couple of years, I have grown more than I could have possibly imagined, and for that I'm beyond grateful.

Robin

I have gotten many valuable lessons out of college so far.

Megan

I'm only a freshman this year but that doesn't mean i havn't gotten a lot out of my experience so far at college. I've learned that even though college may be stressful it is totally worth all the struggles and lack of sleep. I chose to be here and attend college so im going to take the challenges my teachers give me and prove that i have a purpose here and want to succeed and get a good job after four years of hard work. I've also learned that college life isn't what people think it is. College life is a lot harder than you think, i am constantly working and writting papers, etc. It has been very valuable for me to attend college because i want to succeed and recieve my diploma and bachlors degree in graphic design and take what i've learned and apply it to a fantastic job that not only helps me to provide for my future family but also a job that i enjoy. College is all about the hard work and it all pays off in the end when you walk accross that stage diploma in hand!

Josh

college has really prepared me by keepin me organized and really opening my eyes to that people will not just hand you things. u have to earn it through past experience and hard work. its a big eye opener that everyone needs to experience to be ready for life. it prepares you for life and all of its obstacles. college has just shown me how to keep myself organized and prepared me for life events such as my career and financial organization.

Chelsea

I have learned so much by attending college. I have learned who my true friends are, how to write good research papers, and how to apply what I have learned in the classroom to real life events and experiences. I feel that my experience in college will help me in my future dreams and goals, such as my career, my family, my religion, and my community. These few things mean alot to me, because I need all of them to excel in my life. I plan on taking what I have learned at Northern Kentucky University and applying every piece of information to my life in some way. Attending school is a great step, but it is not the only step that needs to be made, the next step is to take in as much knowledge as possible. I plan to spend my life helping others, and I feel that I have the knowledge to do so, because I have made the decision to absorb the information in college.

Kristen

Thinking back to my senior year in high school I would have given myself some very useful advice. I would have told myself to visit several college campuses and really explore my options. I would have told myself to apply for as many grants and scholarships as possible. But, most of all I would have told myself, as a high school senior, to go away to college and enjoy the experience. These are all things that I did not have the knowledge to do as a high school senior, but now as a single mom of three young children, this is the advice I wish I would have had.

Marquita

I f I were to go back in time and talk to myself about the college process I would tell myself to explore as many colleges as possible. By exploring multiple colleges I would expose myself to multiple offers for scholarships that would help to narrow my choices. In the process I would visit many of the colleges to see how people interact, meet people and professional staff. I would also suggest that if I had any doubts, staying home for the first two years of college is an option. I could attend the community college at a cheaper rate and get the experience of taking college courses. This option would provide for a smoother transition to a larger college or university and possibly better scholarship opportunities. Above all I would tell myself to move at a pace that allows me to excel at all times.

Mallory

I think what I would tell myself is just to be prepared for anything and whatever comes your way, and also to be as open as I can be and accepting as I can be. If you feel strongly about something and want to do it, don't be afraid to show who you really are. Do what you want to do with your life, and not what everyone else wants to do, because in the end you will come back to that thing you live. So just stick with what you want to do, and for your own good read, read, read, and be prepared to read some more. Don't worry about the mean people, because you will find that for every mean person there a hundred nice ones that you want to be your friend. Believe what you believe and think for yourself, because no one is going to do it for you and people will try to change you in a way that you don't want. You know that you are strong, so trust in yourself to be as strong like you know you are and you can overcome it all.

Aimee

I would tell myself that college isn't going to be as difficult as all the high school teachers say it is going to be. Don't stress yourself out about it and enjoy your senior year. I would also tell myself to try to keep a job throught senior year so that you are more financially stable in college.

Josh

Of all the things I have learned in my varied experiences throughout the years. the most important piece of advice I could give would be to get involved. Whether it be with service organizations, intramural sports, or greek life, explore the campus and all it has to offer. Not only do you make great friends but it is a phenomenal source for networking that can be useful later in life.

Erwin

If i could go back in time as a high school senior and talk to myself i would advise myself to take more AP classes because it would be worth it to get some college credits out of the way while i can. I would also advise myself that even though you might have your mind set on one college, have as many back ups as you can because you never know what might happen. Also when apply for those schools also apply for scholarships and see which school is willing to pay for most of your school, because when it comes down to it most of your colleges choices are really good schools, it's just the matter of what's going to be cheaper for you!

Nicole

I have learned a lesson about college life that I feel not many have had to learn as of yet. College is wonderful for self-discovery and meeting new people, but one thing it is not ment for is distractions. It's too easy to become caught up in the wrong social network of people, making your priorities out of line. Due to some wrong choices my first year, I became a single mother and had to take a break and now I am working harder than ever to get myself and my life back on track. A good college doesn't only teach you the academic aspects, but also gives you the resources to obtain the necessary discpline for your chosen field. If I would've have know before that I would be where I am now, despite the fact my daughter is the best thing that has ever happened to me, I would've applied myself the first time, partied less, and taken advantage of the tools at my fingertips to teach myself discipline, I could've easily avoided the disaster I endured. In retrospect, everything I needed to succeed was there. It's time to reapply myself.

Myeshia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about college, I would do it in a heartbeat. I made the mistake of not having any money for college. I also made the mistake of not applying for any scholarships. I was accepted to Northern Kentucky University and at the last minute went to another university that was way out of my price range. I went to that school for a semester and came back to NKU. My advice for anybody is being well prepared. Make sure you have applied for any and every scholarship you can. Work hard last year in high school, so that your transition to college be easy. Don't try to join every organization that the college has to offer. Don't be embarrassed to go to a tutor for help. My last piece of advice is being smart. Make wise decisions and remember you are paying for an education don't waste your money.

Breana

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the advice I would give myself knowing what I know now would be to use time management wisely, pay attention to what the teachers say, and learn effective study habits. If I had realized how important time management was would have saved me alot of energy from sleepless nights and also improved my grades from having enough time to do them appropriately. Paying attention to my teachers would have helped alot because they were only there to help me and prepare me for what my college professors were going to expect from me, listening more closely would have eliminated alot of questions i had on the first day of classes. Lastly, learning effective study habits for myself would have been helpful, now i'm wasting time and putting my grades in jeopardy by trying to recognize which studying technques work best for me to help me be the student i can be and achieve to my fullest potential.

Katelyn

Hey! Don?t be afraid the first week of college it gets better as the semester goes on. You might also want to commute or get a dorm with your own room or an individual dorm room, otherwise your first week of college you will move twice and then move back home. You didn?t have such good roommates. Remember confidence is the key to success. Students try to make you think you won?t make it into the nursing program, but they are wrong all you need is confidence and determination. You will always want to study no matter what. It will be such a relief and rewarding at the end of the semester. Always follow your beliefs and values. Lastly get involved and join a sorority don?t wait for the following year.

Devon

If I could go back in time and talk to my senior self I would tell myself not to worry. New people are easy to meet. It's not difficult to navigate around campus, you only get lost a couple of times in the beginning. Ten minutes between classes is plently enough time, as long as your teacher lets you out on time. Do your homework, especially the mountains of reading assignments given each day, I know it's hard and boring, but it'll benefit you in the end. Do not procrastinate. Study! Study! Study! Living on campus isn't so bad; it's actually nice if you get along with your room mate. You have to look out for yourself, you have freedom now, but you also have so many responsibilities. It's okay to now know what you want to do; don't let it stress you out. Being undeclared gives you the freedom to explore many interesting classes, some that you never thought you would take, but they end up being your favorites. Spend your money wisely; college is expensive. Apply for as many scholarhips as you can. Don't forget to have fun.

Ashley

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college life and making the transition from high school and college the one thing I will tell myself is that I should take more time out to study now and get used to the hard work. I really haven't been the type to sit myself down and do a lot of reading and studying, now that I am in college I must do a lot of it and I now find myself struggling to stay focused when studying because I am not really used to it. I believe if I had the chance to go back in time and tell myself to get in the habit of studying more then I most likely wouldn't be having a hard time focusing on studying.